Idea: Use city's windfall for road improvements

I think this simple idea may be a good step in the right direction for the city of Syracuse. A story Thursday explained how Syracuse saved over $1 million in snowplowing costs because of the mild winter. A solution of what to do with this money is quite reasonable, I believe. Let’s fix our roads. For cyclists like myself, Erie Boulevard, Fayette and Genesee streets are all in horrible condition, the shoulders of the roads especially. It’s our worst nightmare.

Cyclists are at risk constantly on these roads. We must avoid potholes to avoid getting a flat or busting a spoke. Then we must stop to wait for traffic to go because of the potholes and breaks. Sidewalks are always off-limits to road bikes. Broken curb pieces, broken drainage and sewer covers as well as large rocks litter the sides of these streets, which make riding very difficult as well.

I thought our city was supposed to be biker friendly. Yes, we appreciate the bike lanes on some roads and the trails available, but please know that these are mainly for recreational biking. What about the commuters? Plus one last thought: Please add a usable shoulder to Fayette Street by the West Side bridges. The corner of West Street is by far the most dangerous corner for bikers. Too many times I and other people nearly got struck by oncoming, speeding cars. Thank you if you support these ideas. If you don’t, it’s Ok. We’re still going to save more money with our bikes.